Big Cat in our Street

A 'Leopard' paid a brief visit yesterday. Handsome beast isn't it. Read about the trip they were on here.

Revisiting Puhinui Reserve

We had a few hours today before I needed to think about work, so didn't go too far afield for lunch. Back we went to the Puhinui Reserve to have a better look.



We were quite surprised to see how it was all set up for equestrian events. There were also some rather interesting sheep varieties to be found.



We had hoped to get down to the water but it was fenced off as a bird sanctuary. The airport was close by in the other direction.



It was nice to take time out, to walk over the fields, climb fences (I'd really like to give that up!) and gather pine cones.

Puhinui Reserve

We didn't roam so far from home today. After packing a picnic and our sand chairs we decided to eat lunch at a local reserve. We didn't really know what to expect as it isn't really advertised or even signposted.

To get there you turn left onto Price Rd after passing the Memorial Gardens in Puhinui Rd.



There is a brick wall and gate way - no sign. At the end of the drive more gates and then this sign.



We only walked a short way, then found this delightful pond. The reflections were lovely We were sad that a pair of Paradise Ducks took off when we approached. There was a lot of busy bird life - Pukekos, ducks,and swallows. We could also trace the progress of a huge carp as it swam close to the surface - often with a fin poking out. (See ripples in left picture, as it swims across the pond.)



The remains of the volcanic cone Matukutureia, also known as McLaughlin’s Mountain was to our left. We will go back another day and follow the track down to the sea.

Narrow Neck Beach

We visited Narrow Neck Beach over at Devonport on Friday. It was so beautiful and the water looked very tempting. We haven't swum in the sea for about 17 years - I always used to love it, somehow we got out of the habit.

Today we went armed with togs, lunch and sunblock. The water was lovely - the togs a little tight - but there were plenty of others our age and shape taking a dip. (Sorry no photo - Doug appeared to have used wide-screen format by mistake. I'm sure I don't look like that!)



Both days there were children learning water skills.

A group of older children launched 470 class yachts and sailed off in pairs - they seemed to be experts. Later we saw them doing a spinnaker run out in the distance.



Some played cricket on the sand while others received instruction in sailing optimists, and kayaking. Note the tethered opti - a bit like having trainer wheels.



Farther out to sea we could see two huge Louis Vuitton boats match racing. (The LV Trophy Series officially begins tomorrow.)

Patchwork Cushion

Front & Back Views

Today I finished my patchwork cushion - I can't wait to begin my next project.

Birthday 2010

This one seems to have arrived hard on the heels of my last one.



Ali, Alex and Frankie arrived at lunchtime to take me out to lunch. We put Frankie in the stroller and wandered up to the Nathan Homestead Cafe.

It was pleasant sitting in the lovely old house. Alex enjoyed an endless supply of toys from the crèche while Frankie entertained other guests with her giggles and smiles.



Alex enjoyed playing in the playground after lunch.



Rob came around after work and we went off to the Thai restaurant up at the gardens for dinner. (It's under new management; spruced up, air conditioned - we were very impressed. The food was beautifully presented and delicious.)